Actress Arlene Martel, who appeared in a range of shows including Star Trek: TOS, The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits and The Six Million Dollar Man, has died. She was 78.
She was a regular on numerous television shows, however Martel is arguably best know for her appearance in Star Trek: TOS as the would be mate for Spock.
The second season première develops Vulcan culture, and sees Spock (Leonard Nimoy) experiencing the “pon farr” – a mating ritual that requires a return to his home planet in search of a mate. Martel was stunning as T’Pring, the Vulcan lady in question. The role brought cult status to Martel, and she often appeared at conventions.
The New York actress also appeared in The Man from U.N.C.L.E, Battlestar Galactica (1978), and Brothers and Sisters, while film credits include HONG KONG and THE GLASS CAGE. In Robert Altman’s documentary, THE JAMES DEAN STORY, she enticed audiences with her disclosure that she’d been romantically linked to Dean for years.
Martel died from complications due to a heart attack on Tuesday in Santa Monica.
Leonard Nimoy expressed his sadness on Twitter, saying:
Saying goodbye to T’Pring, Arlene Martel. A lovely talent.
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) August 13, 2014
Source: THR/MarcCushman
